2005 Rankings Highlight the Firm’s Strength in Construction, Commercial Litigation, Environment, Insurance, and Intellectual Property

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (May 27, 2005):  Farella Braun + Martel LLP received top rankings in the Chambers USA Guide to America’s Leading Lawyers for Business.  The firm was recognized as one of the leading law firms in California in the areas of Construction, Commercial Litigation, Environment, Insurance and Intellectual Property.

Chambers USA ranks both law firms and attorneys.  For the U.S. directory, over 7,000 in-depth interviews were conducted with clients and private-practice attorneys.  Law firms and individual attorneys are ranked on a scale of 1 - 6.  Qualities on which the rankings are assessed include technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial awareness/astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other qualities most valued by the client.

The firm’s Construction practice (ranked # 2) received a strong endorsement as “top to bottom the most capable firm that I have dealt with.” This success stems from the highly qualified attorneys and the "imagination and innovation they bring to problem solving." The practice focuses on matters within the state of California and is particularly experienced in contentious issues. Particularly active areas include disputes over energy facilities and hospitals.   Farella Braun + Martel attorneys recognized as leaders in this field were Alan Harris (ranked #1), Charles Sink (ranked #1), and Deborah Ballati (ranked #2). 

The Commercial Litigation practice (ranked # 2) “excels in every aspect of litigation.” The firm was recognized as “superb” in its handling of white collar and regulatory matters. Other specialties include defense of securities class actions, IP-related matters and environmental litigation.  Chambers noted that the team’s trial experience and “intellectual firepower” instill confidence in clients, who vouch for the group’s ability to try significant cases. Doug Young (ranked #2) was recognized as a leader in the fields of commercial litigation and white collar crime and government investigations.

Farella Braun + Martel’s Environmental practice (ranked # 3) excels in litigation and regulatory work.  The group was described as “excellent, knowledgeable and responsive.”  Farella attorneys recognized as leaders in this field were James Bruen (ranked #2) and Deborah Schmall (ranked #3).   

The Insurance Coverage practice (ranked # 4) was noted for its “top quality” litigators in the field of insurance coverage.  The group represents policyholders in disputes related to such issues as construction delays and defects, product liability and environmental liabilities. Damages from natural disasters such as fires and earthquakes also feature in its repertoire. Working in tandem with other specialists at the firm, the team has helped clients recover costs stemming from antitrust and IP violations. Its reach also extends to counseling prominent clients on structuring insurance coverage programs that are acceptable to various governmental agencies. Recognized as leaders in this field were William Friedrich (ranked #3) and Mary McCutcheon (ranked #4).

The Intellectual Property team entered the tables this year at # 4.  This “skilled IP group is growing into a real presence.”  The team deals with complex trade secret, patent, trademark, copyright, antitrust, technology licensing and technology-related disputes. As well as serving clients from the semiconductor, software and biotech industries, the team has particular experience of acting for major clients in motion pictures, satellites, communications equipment, wine making.  John Cooper was noted as the first point of contact at Farella Braun + Martel for complex IP matters.

About Farella Braun + Martel LLP
Since its founding in 1962, Farella Braun + Martel has achieved a national reputation for the acumen of its business practice, the high profile cases of its complex commercial litigation practice and its prestigious client base. The San Francisco-based firm serves a diverse group of clients from multinational corporations to emerging businesses. The firm also has an office in the Napa Valley focused on the wine industry and related businesses. 

Press Contact:  Cheryl Loof - 415-954-4433